Students take a `Step Up` to Higher Education

Another 108 pupils from secondary schools in Belfast can now call themselves graduates of the University of Ulster’s Step-Up programme.

Step-Up is an internationally acclaimed science-based programme of academic and vocational activities that are delivered by schools, the University of Ulster, industry and government and aims to improve pupil’s academic performance, aspirations and expectations. To date over 500 students from secondary schools in the north-west and Belfast areas have successfully completed the programme and progressed to higher education institutions across the UK.

Speaking at a ceremony at the University of Ulster celebrating the success of these pupils, Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, praised the University for the success of the programme and paid tribute to the parents of the students, educationalists and industry for their support of the initiative.

Addressing these latest graduates, the Minister said: “Congratulations to all those who have successfully completed the Step-Up programme. This programme is integral to the Department’s strategy of encouraging more students from groups that are currently under represented to go on to Higher Education and reach their true potential.

“In Northern Ireland we must secure a sustainable, globally competitive economy and increasing workforce skills is key to achieving this objective. Step-Up plays an important role in this by assisting more students to progress to honours degree programmes in subjects that are strategically important, for example in the disciplines of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.”

These students are the second cohort to successfully complete the programme following its expansion to Belfast in 2006. This expansion followed the success of the original programme at the university’s Magee campus. The students in the original programme at Magee achieved a 97% pass rate, with 90% of students achieving A, B or C grades in their applied science A-Levels. The students whose success was celebrated in this latest event maintained the Step-Up reputation for outstanding performance by achieving a 98% pass rate, with again 90% of students achieving A, B or C grades in their applied science A-Levels.

Dr Damian O’Kane, Head of Access & Educational Partnerships, who designed and directs the programme, said: “We are delighted once again to be able to showcase the outstanding achievements of the young people who have participated in the programme. It is fitting that the Minister for Employment and Learning, who has been tremendously supportive, is here to share in the success of the young people and the programme.”

Notes to Editors:

1. Pupils from Ashfield Boys and Girls High Schools, Belfast Girls Model and Boys Model Schools, Christian Brothers Secondary School, Corpus Christi College, Orangefield High School, St Joseph’s College, St Roses and St Patrick’s College participated in the Step-Up programme.
2. Media queries to Communications Branch, Department for Employment and Learning, Tel: 028 9025 7492. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned